State OKs speed-limit changes on interstate stretches

The Oregon Transportation Commission, at its September meeting, approved adjustments to speed limits for trucks and passenger vehicles on certain sections of I-5, I-205 and I-84.

Commissioners approved recommendations from the Oregon Speed Zone Review Panel for these two adjustments:

Increase speed limits for trucks from 55 mph to 60 mph on specified sections of I-5, I-205 and I-84. Reduce the speed limit for passenger vehicles on I-5 in the Roseburg area from 65 mph to 60 mph (and keep truck speed limits there at 55 mph).

The speed limit adjustments will be in effect when signs are posted, which should be completed by mid-December.

The areas where truck speed limits will be increased to 60 mph are on I-5, south of Portland (except through urban areas, such as Salem, Eugene, Roseburg and Medford, where it will not change); I-205, from the junction of I-5 to West Linn; and I-84, from Troutdale to The Dalles.

On I-5 in the Roseburg area, the truck speed limit will stay at 55 mph and the passenger vehicles speed limit will be reduced to 60 mph, as it is on the interstate in other urban areas around the state.

Two studies and public input helped inform the Speed Zone Review Panel’s recommendations. To learn more about how speed limits are set in Oregon, visit the website.